"Monstro and the Kelp Kids is an exploration into the concept of revitalizing our inner child spirit. The "Kelp Kids" are a family of a diverse group of kids, that embrace each others differences and have a profound love for the sea and adventure. They possess characteristics and qualities that can be found within ourselves and others we have met and will meet on our separate life journeys, making it relative to both adults and children.

In this series I have chosen to combine new mediums such as gouache and inks to create a vivid and life filled image. This approach has been extremely liberating in that it has given me the opportunity to truly find beauty in imperfection. The pieces are loose, multi layered and have hidden messages and icons within. The Kids were first introduced last month in Miami and I am very excited to share them with San Diego.....Kelp Kids of the world unite."

-Monstrinho

Michael “Monstrinho” Amorillo is a contemporary multi-media artist well-known for large scale open-air murals, abstract acrylic paintings, original character illustrations and intricate watercolors. Infused with personality and energy, Michael’s themed installations and character-inspired artworks celebrate positivity, diversity and creativity. The loveable characters, vibrant colors and whimsical themes engage and inspire his audience of children, families and the young at heart. Born in Queens in 1976 and raised on Long Island, New York, his love for comic books and cartoons was the root from which his creativity began to sprout. During childhood, Monstrinho began creating his own characters and storylines. After laying his eyes on graffiti art, he gradually began using it as a means for storytelling. His works encapsulate the feeling of complete freedom. Each piece is fantasy-driven and explodes with color, creating its own little world free from the rules and limitations of everyday life. Each painting consists of characters that Monstrinho creates from his emotional experiences, personal encounters or elements of nature. They illustrate the boundlessness of the creative mind.